395: The Highs and Lows of 100 Miles - Long Haul 100 Part 2

Kevin’s Ultra Marathon Journey: Conquering the 100-Mile Challenge

Running 100 miles isn’t just an athletic milestone—it’s a life-changing journey that tests your body, mind, and spirit. Hi, I’m Kevin—a runner, coach, and someone who’s just tackled this epic challenge. Let me walk you through what I’ve learned along the way so you can take on your own ultramarathon with confidence.

Let’s Talk Training: Finding the Balance Between Speed and Strength

One big takeaway from my training was how crucial it is to balance speed and strength. Keeping a steady pace is key, but having the strength to power through the toughest miles is what really makes a difference. Looking back, I wish I’d leaned more into strength training—it’s something I recommend every runner prioritize. Think of it as building a solid foundation that supports you when fatigue kicks in.

Fueling the Miles: What Works and What Doesn’t

When you’re running 100 miles, nutrition and hydration aren’t just important—they’re everything. For me, a mix of liquid fuels for quick energy and solid foods like PB&J sandwiches for staying power worked best. Staying on a hydration schedule was just as crucial. Trust me, waiting until you’re thirsty can lead to big problems later. My advice? Experiment during training to nail down what fuels your body best. At the same time, don't be afraid to make adjustments during the race based on what your body needs.

Little Boosts, Big Impact: Music and Caffeine

Music and caffeine (and grapes!) were my secret weapons during the race. The right playlist kept me moving when the miles felt endless, and caffeine provided a much-needed energy jolt exactly when I needed it, especially during the last two loops. Since I don’t usually consume caffeine, its effect was like a mini superpower on race day. Find what motivates and energizes you, and use it strategically to keep going.

Mental Battles: How to Stay in the Game

Ultramarathons are as much a mental challenge as they are a physical one. There were moments when frustration and doubt crept in, but I found ways to reset and keep moving. Sometimes it was as simple as focusing on the beautiful scenery or chatting with another runner. Remember, your mindset can make or break your race, so have a few mental tricks ready to keep you on track. Check out the episode where I told the story of how I transformed my anger into a sense of calm to use some walking miles to truly allow my body to recover.

Recovery: The Often-Overlooked Key to Success

Crossing the finish line is only part of the journey—recovery is where the real healing happens. I focused on getting protein and carbs into my system right after the race, which helped jumpstart muscle repair. But it wasn’t just about the physical side; the mental fatigue hit hard, too. A balanced recovery plan that addresses both body and mind is essential for bouncing back strong.

It Takes a Village: The Power of a Support Team

One of the best parts of my ultramarathon was having my family there as my crew. They cheered me on, kept me fueled, and made the whole experience even more meaningful. If you’re planning an ultra, lean on your support network—they’ll be your lifeline when the going gets tough.

In the end, running 100 miles is about so much more than the distance. It’s about preparation, resilience, and the incredible highs and lows you experience along the way. I hope my journey gives you a glimpse of what’s possible and inspires you to chase your own big goals.

Thanks for following along! Until next time, lace up your shoes, hit the trails, and see where your running journey takes you!